Everyday Oral Surgery

Today we sit with Dr. Thomas Shlieve to talk about HPV and its impacts on our health. Diving straight into the subject matter, Thomas defines HPV as a sexually transmitted disease. He goes on to explain the various genotypes, which are cancer-causing, and what age groups face the biggest threats. We learn that although HPV is typically contracted during teen years and your twenties, the onset of cancer caused by HPV is often experienced in patients who are in their 40s and 50s. Yet, Thomas is beginning to see patients much younger in age and stresses the importance of HPV vaccination. As our conversation develops, Thomas talks to us about how the prevalence of HPV has changed throughout the decades and shares how surgeons can approach patients who have the virus. In the closing segments of the show, Thomas returns his focus to the HPV vaccine, lists the benefits, and eases patient fears about the jab. However, should you not be vaccinated against HPV, your chances of survival remain incredibly high should you be HPV positive, and successful HPV treatment can mean you’re no longer HPV positive. To get your fill on HPV and its cancer-causing effects, be sure to join us today!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s guest, Dr. Thomas Shlieve.We answer: What is HPV, how is it transmitted, and what is its link to oral cancer?Thomas talks about the genotypes of the HPV virus.Hear about the prevalence of HPV and how it has changed.Ages affected by cancer caused by HPV and who is at highest risk.What surgeons can do to help their patients avoid HPV.We look at the relationship between vaccines and HPV.Why younger children should get the HPV vaccine.What to look out for when identifying HPV in patients.Thomas tells us about the survival rate for HPV cancer.How Thomas and Grant have their patients receive IV drips.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Thomas ShlieveDr. Thomas Shlieve on LinkedIn

Today we’re taking a break from talking about cutting-edge techniques and tools to focus on another very important topic: racism. Inequality and underrepresentation are unfortunately still present in the workplace, but there is hope for change; real, lasting change. In this episode, we talk with Dr. Raza Hussain about his recently published article on racism, his own experiences with discrimination, and how an appreciation for learning and teaching can remedy this societal and systemic disease. Our discussion opens with Raza telling us about his background. He touches on life as a first-generation Pakistani-American, and how the first Gulf war and how his surname, ‘Hussain,’ impacted his upbringing in America. Delving deeper, Raza shares details on why not all racism is intentional, but rather comes from a place of ignorance. The way to cure this, says Raza, is to be a teacher. He expands on this and suggests how you can educate, and even inspire others by telling them about your own unique heritage and customs. As our conversation develops we find out from Raza about how women are also subjected to discrimination in the workplace. He talks about how women are oftentimes better performers in the oral maxillofacial surgery industry, and that their underrepresentation is a great shame but something we can change. Toward the end of the episode, we recap the most pertinent details from our discussion, like the relationship between teaching and learning, and why common ground is so beneficial. Be sure to join in on this episode and educate yourself on how you can help raise minority representation. Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s guest, Dr. Raza Hussain.Raza talks about one of his latest journal articles. Raza’s experiences as a first-generation Pakistani-American in his family.Why Raza’s experiences aren’t indicative of the experiences felt by other minority group members.Hear about Raz’s residency and how impacted him.We get into the true definition of being an academician. What a high-reliability organization looks like.How women need to have better representation in the oral maxillofacial surgery industry.Studies that show women are in demand, as per client preference.Some of the prejudice women face in residencies.Most people don’t have pure hatred and animosity in their hearts toward other people.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Raza Hussain on LinkedInAmerican Association of Oral Maxillofacial Surgery

As today’s guest can attest, it’s never been more challenging to become an oral surgeon. And if you do have what it takes, then toxic learning cultures might discourage you from pursuing your career. In this episode, we speak to Dr. Trina Sengupta about the importance of persistence in becoming an oral surgeon. Early in our conversation, we ask Trina about her experience teaching residents who might not be committed to oral surgery. After comparing private practice with working in large institutions, Trina shares how she maintains her composure under stressful environments. Reflecting on her career, Trina highlights the incredible role that her mentors have played in helping her excel. Trina then discusses how valuable positivity is to overcoming career roadblocks. Linked to this, Trina unpacks her top tips on becoming an oral surgeon. Later, she talks about how unproductive it is to use fear to motivate residents. As she explains, fostering strong and open teamwork is key in providing the best possible care. For more insights on persisting in the face of adversity, be sure to tune in today! Key Points From This Episode:Trina shares her experiences of teaching residents.Overcoming the challenge of teaching disinterested residents.Comparing public and private medical practices.How Trina maintains her composure under trying circumstances.Trina talks about how she landed her first role in New York.Reflecting on the role that Trina’s mentors played in furthering her career.Exploring how Trina navigates hospital spaces as a woman.  Hear the top lesson that Trina imparts to residents.Tips on applying to oral surgery postings. Why it’s more difficult than ever to become an oral surgeon.How Trina strives to create a supportive work environment.The benefits of building a strong team dynamic.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Trina Sengupta on LinkedInUniversity of PennsylvaniaUniversity of Illinois ChicagoCase Western Reserve UniversityDr. Grant StuckiDr. Grant Stucki Phone Number — +1 720-775-5843

If you have a medical practice for more than a week, you will undoubtedly receive some bad patient reviews. This is a part of life as a health professional, but that doesn't mean that there are not ways to minimize the number of these or deal with them in a more suitable way. Today, we host a discussion between Dr. Stucki, Dr. Hull, and Dr. Salomon on this exact topic, looking at patient experiences, expectations, disagreements, and more! Some of the main takeaways include a proactive approach to communicating with a disgruntled patient, the importance of staff education and training, useful reward systems, and the power of empathy for a patient's difficulties. Though these situations may not always be within our control as oral surgeons, we always have control over our own responses, so finding the best ways for you, your staff, and your patients, will serve everyone's interests in the long run. We spend some time contemplating online reviews and the bias towards negative reviews that seems part of the natural human psyche. The conversation also covers the tools that can be utilized for the review process and setting these up in the most effective way. So for all that from our panel of experts, be sure to listen in today! Key Points From This Episode:The frequency of issues related to staff and elements of the patient experience. Groundwork for patient expectations around payment and waiting times.   Dealing with problems arising from other practitioners and disagreements about treatment.The importance of great communication in trying to find resolutions to issues. Questions about refunding and making up for different types of bad experiences.Handling these tough discussions and when to admit a fault or not. Why the extra effort usually pays off; with good reviews from patients. Demonstrating care to patients explicitly; diffusing situations and easing tension.How to deal with bad reviews; prevention and helpful tools and technologies.Motivating staff through rewards for good reviews!Evaluating the different review platforms and picking the ones to utilize internally.  The relationship between in-person follow-ups and reviews. Creating a great customer experience through a united approach from the whole practice.Positive reinforcement and bonuses for staff members as a means to boost employee morale.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. William HullDr. David SalomonSwellSocial Review WizardDr. Grant StuckiDr. Grant Stucki Phone Number — +1 720-775-5843

As medical professionals, our focus is most often on the health of others, but this does not mean that we should neglect ourselves and forget about the risks that come with being an oral surgeon. Today Dr. Stucki and Dr. Weiskopf sit down to talk about some of the important factors in staying healthy while working, looking at both physical and mental wellbeing. We first cover the array of risks that are associated with the profession and some simple strategies for dealing with things like backache and muscle issues, before moving onto the topics of diet, rest, and meditation. No matter how busy you are it is vital that you set aside at least a small portion of time each day to unwind and refresh your body and mind, and what this can be is completely up to you. It is no secret that diet plays a huge role in health, and we discuss easy ways to eat for a better life! From there, the discussion turns to protective gear, COVID protocols, and how to make repetitive days interesting and engaging. This is such an important conversation for all professionals, as starting with one's own health is a great way to approach helping others!Key Points From This Episode:The common and obvious health risks that face oral surgeons. Scott's approach to safeguarding against joint and back problems; exercise, stretching, and diet.  Injuries and hazards outside of the office and thoughts on how to reduce these.Healthier foods and better decisions about what you put in your body.Combatting mental stress through periods of relaxation, decompression, and meditation.Stress from staff members; better communication, feedback, and improving on problems. Dealing with difficult customers and weathering the storm of uncomfortable situations.Scott's experience of having to dismiss a patient from the practice!The importance of trust and transparency between doctor and patient.Protective gear and making sure all the precautions are in place, especially in the time of COVID-19. Scott's particular PPE setup: shield, goggles, gown. Mental health at the office and finding new ways to enjoy work and stay engaged.   Some great advice for clinicians from Atul Gawande!Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Scott WeiskopfDr. Grant StuckiPubMedBlinkistKelly Clarkson Atul GawandeDr. Grant Stucki EmailDr. Grant Stucki Phone Number — 720-775-5843

Some of us may have the sense that our accounts are secure but the truth is that criminals can do some serious damage if they find a way in. Today on the show Dr. Stucki sits down with Dr. Weiskopf to tell a story about a recent experience he had where he fell victim to a drastic case of identity theft. Dr. Stucki’s nightmare incident began with him getting his unattended bag stolen out of the parking lot of his practice, and the next thing he knew he was having huge sums of money stolen from him left, right, and center. He describes a series of incredibly frustrating experiences with cops and banks during incidents where the criminal could have been caught but got away. The story highlights the way the law system in his state makes it difficult to take action on guilty parties, the way COVID is affecting crime, and of course, the necessity of taking every measure we can to protect ourselves from this kind of experience. After hearing Dr. Stucki’s story, we explore some of the actions that can be taken to ramp up our personal security — ways to be more careful with passwords, monitor our credit accounts, and more. Toward the end of the show Drs. Stucki and Weiskopf share a few more stories about theft — of money via different scam types and even drugs out of doctors' rooms! Tune in to hear about some very real threats and how to reduce your chances of falling prey to them.Key Points From This Episode:A crazy story where Dr. Stucki fell victim to an identity theft crime.Enormous amounts of money withdrawn by the thief from Dr. Stucki’s account.An incident where Dr. Stucki almost caught the criminal himself at the bank.A car chase incident where Dr. Stucki’s friend followed the thief.Multiple cars the thief bought on Dr. Stucki’s card.A series of frustrating incidents where the criminal was almost caught but got away.How the thief was finally caught on charges unrelated to Dr. Stucki’s case.A recommendation for listeners to have a credit monitoring membership.How to freeze your credit and use apps that protect your privacy in different ways.Limiting the number of valuable items you store in one place.What ended up happening to Dr. Stucki’s money that was stolen.All the admin tasks Dr. Stucki has had to do to recover from this incident.How easy it is to commit crimes of this sort due to COVID in democratic states.A story from Dr. Weiskopf in which his wife was a victim of identity theft.Another story about wire fraud and the prevalence of this type of crime.The theft of drugs out of the cars of surgeons and how to avoid this.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Scott WeiskopfDr. Grant StuckiLifeLockLastPassDuoGoogle AuthenticatorComplete IDTransUnionEquifax

Today we sit with repeat guest and old friend, Dr. William Hull. A maxillofacial surgeon based in Indiana, William has many years’ worth of treatment experience to his name. In this episode, we talk about several of these treatments and pay special attention to expose and bond techniques, along with several other ortho treatments. First, we gather William’s thoughts on bite blocks versus molts. William goes on to explain the benefits of molts and tells us why bite blocks aren’t necessarily obsolete. Before going into E and B techniques, William then tells us about the “sweetheart” device and why it can threaten the integrity of the patient’s lingual bone. As our conversation develops, William then gives us his take on orthodontist referrals and what he looks for in a good referral. Toward the end of the show, we take time to consider various E and B techniques and make reference to other treatments like wisdom teeth, third molar removal, premolar removal, primary teeth removal, uprighting, and removal of horizontal canine. To get your fill on these treatments, be sure to join us today!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s guest, Dr. William Hull.William tells us about bite blocks and why he now prefers molts.Hear what makes molts so versatile.Issues with cranking molts and how they can harm your patient. How William works his molts with his assistants. Why William’s thoughts on the “sweetheart” tool have changed.We talk about the orthodontist referral process.William shares one of his orthodontist’s referrals.Hear about various treatments orthodontists request.Hear about the intricacies behind E and Bs.Some of the challenges and benefits of taking out second molars.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. William Hull on LinkedIn

As we are recommended by general dentists, endodontists, periodontists, and orthodontists, getting referrals is a key part of our job as maxillofacial surgeons. Today we talk about different kinds of referrals, how to approach them, and why they’re so important. We open the show by hearing from our co-host, Dr. David Salomon, about his thoughts on various types of referrals, as he explains the difference between top, middle, and lower-end referrals. He touches on the relationship you have with each and why building rapport is a good step in maintaining these relationships. As our conversation develops, listeners will also hear about some of the challenges associated with patients that you gain from problematic referrals. David mentions some of the most common problems, like misinformation, vague information, or simply no information at all. To antidote this, David shares information on how doctors can write up better referrals. We look at aspects like clarity, identifying true emergency scenarios, and why you shouldn’t go through with a surgery that has been requested but might not be necessary. Throughout our conversation, David shares valuable anecdotes from his personal experience, peppering in some banter along the way. To find out what the bottom line is on proper referrals and much, much more, be sure to join us today. Key Points From This Episode:Today we discuss referrals with co-host Dr. David Solomon.What David’s initial thoughts are on referrals and what to look out for.How to approach referrals and what the referred patient tells you.When referral notes don’t accurately describe the problem or its extent.David shares anecdotes about misinformation in referral notes.Why you shouldn’t give in to time pressure if referrals aren’t clear.How David approaches referrals from orthodontists.When you don’t need a referral to make a decision.Hear about GP referrals and their common characteristics.We discuss medical plans and what happens when you aren’t fully covered.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. David Salomon on LinkedIn

The best way to cut your teeth in oral surgery is through residency, but just getting there can be a massive challenge for young students. Today we speak with my kid brother Dr. Jacob Stucki about his path to residency and the means he used to get there. We open the show by exploring Jakes’s history in medical school and how he went about choosing a residency and ultimately being accepted for it. After hearing about his academic journey with UCLA and his residency at Case Western Reserve University, Jake shares his most valuable tips, starting at a grassroots level. To get into oral surgery, young surgeons need to successfully complete the CBSC test — an examination based on the MBME. Jake provides context for the test, telling us how it prepares students for their oral surgery residency. Looking back at his own experiences, Jake tells us about what it took to pass this rigorous test. Following Jake’s best study tips, he goes on to share details about the test itself, explaining its characteristics and how it is a balance of rote learning and cognition. Later on in the show, Jake talks to us about some of the other ways you can ensure you get into your residency of choice, like extracurriculars outside of medicine, as well as externships. We then dive into residency interviews, the types of questions asked, and how you ought to approach them. To finish off the episode, Jake tells us about his experiences in residency, the lessons he discovered, and why they’re ideal spaces for learning. Be sure to tune in today!Key Points From This Episode:Introducing today’s guest, my younger brother, Dr. Jacob Stucki.Jake shares a synopsis of his experience in academia and as a resident surgeon.Hear about the tips that’ll help aspiring doctors to get into oral surgery.Why the CBSE test has become so important.Jake tells us more about the CBSE test and its origins.Find out how Jake studied for the CBSE test.Other ways you can ensure you get into the residency of your choice.Why it’s important to get involved in your community.The role of externships for oral surgery students.Some of the most common questions asked in interviews.Learn about externship etiquette.Jakes shares tips for exit interviews after externships.When you need to ask for help and when you should back yourself as an oral surgeon.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Jake Stucki on LinkedInCBSEUSMLENYUIRONMANUltraman

Today we are joined by Dr. Dustin Haupt from Arvada, Colorado to talk about the practice that he recently set up from scratch! We talk about this challenging process, Dr. Haupt's motivation behind the decision, and the hiccups and stresses that he and his team encountered along the way. Our guest takes us through the period after he left the Navy, and started from square one with construction and contractors, underlining the value of hiring a construction manager to see the project through. We talk about how duties at the practice are divided at the moment and Dustin also comments on what it is like to run a practice with his wife. We get into how to manage this personal and professional relationship, with our guest expressing his gratitude for their personality types and his wife's strengths! The conversation also covers marketing and networking and the ways in which you can work yourself into the referral book of other locals. Dr. Haupt was initially unaware of the time it would take for others to begin making referrals to him, but has quickly learned that it takes a bit more than just a single meeting and introduction. He explains how repeated visits and generosity can help to build familiarity and trust at other practices, something that is vital when building a client base. For all this and more, join us for this great chat!Key Points From This Episode:Dr. Haupt's education, training, and current practice. The experience of starting a practice from scratch and the period after Dr. Haupt left the navy. Purchasing land, construction, and the hurdles in this process. Ownership of the practice; how things are set up currently between Dr. Haupt, his wife, and an associate.Advice for those considering a similar project — doing your research and making good hires.The challenges of working with contractors and dealing with extended schedules. Necessary research about an area before opening a practice. The schedule at the practice currently and how Dr. Haupt utilizes his time. Marketing and stimulating referrals; the several touchpoints that it takes to build relationships.Dr. Haupt's professional partnership with his wife and making the different parts of this work.Extra tips and reflections for new practices from Dr. Haupt.New equipment and software in the office — set up and pricing.Thoughts on ketamine usage and the pros and cons for different patients.Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:Dr. Grant StuckiDr. Grant Stucki on LinkedInDr. Dustin Haupt on LinkedInCreighton University School of DentistryUICAMOSClearChoiceOMS-Exec